Martial to lead the line, 4-3-3: Predicted Manchester United to face Brighton

Manchester United make the trip to the south Coast to face Brighton & Hove Albion in Friday’s Premier League game. The Red Devils are firmly placed in the second position in the standings and they can genuinely seal the runner-up spot with a victory over Chris Hughton’s side.

Formation: 4-3-3

Lineup:

David de Gea could not extend his clean sheet against the Gunners last weekend but he will want a better performance from his defence this time around. The Spaniard has attained 17 shutouts in the league this term and he is currently just one ahead of Manchester City’s Ederson in the ‘Golden Glove’ race.

In defence, Jose Mourinho may stick with Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young in the right and left-back positions respectively whilst Victor Lindelof and Chris Smalling should reclaim their places at the heart of the backline. Ivorian centre-back Eric Bailly has been ignored from the starting lineup of late and this should remain the case on Friday with Mourinho confirming his intention of helping players vying for World Cup spots.

In midfield, the Portuguese may not opt for any kind of rotations with his players and we are anticipating Nemanja Matic, Ander Herrera and Paul Pogba to maintain their spots. Pogba, in particular, has flourished on the left side of a midfield three, and he has contributed at least a goal or assist in four of his previous five appearances.

In the attack, United are expected to be without Romelu Lukaku, who is currently receiving treatment on an ankle problem sustained against Arsenal. In this case, Anthony Martial could get the nod to start up front with Alexis Sanchez and Marcus Rashford strong candidates to flank him. As such, Jesse Lingard should drop to the bench after a below-par showing against a weakened Gunners lineup.